Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes & Mushrooms in a Garlic Basil Cream Sauce

Who doesn’t love a plate of creamy pasta that’s packed with flavors? Today, we’re diving into the magic of Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes & Mushrooms in a Garlic Basil Cream Sauce. With its rich garlic-basil cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and savory mushrooms, this dish takes comfort food to the next level! Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving it up for friends, this pasta is sure to bring a smile to your face.

The combination of the earthy mushrooms, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and the velvety cream sauce creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, so you’ll have dinner on the table in no time. Let’s get into the details and explore how to make this delicious pasta.

Equipment Needed

To make this delicious creamy sun-dried tomato mushroom pasta, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

1. Large Pot: For cooking the pasta. A good-sized pot ensures the pasta has enough room to cook evenly.
2. Large Pan or Skillet: To sauté the garlic, mushrooms, and make the sauce. A non-stick or stainless-steel skillet works best for even cooking.
3. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To stir the pasta and the sauce. Wooden spoons are ideal for avoiding scratches on your cookware.
4. Colander: For draining the pasta once it’s cooked.
5. Grater: To freshly grate Parmesan cheese (for the best flavor and texture).
6. Knife & Cutting Board: For chopping the sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, and fresh basil.
7. Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accuracy for ingredients like heavy cream, broth, and seasonings.

What You’ll Need

Before we jump into the directions, let’s gather all the goodies we’ll need to make this mouthwatering pasta:

1. 12 oz linguine (or any pasta of choice) 🍝
   • Substitutions: You can use any type of pasta you like here. Spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta will work wonderfully. If you want a lower-carb option, consider using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
   • Tip: Make sure to cook your pasta al dente to ensure it retains its texture when tossed with the sauce.
2. 2 tbsp olive oil 🌿
   • Substitutions: You can swap olive oil with butter for a richer flavor. For a different profile, try avocado oil or coconut oil.
   • Tip: Choose extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor, but if you want a more neutral taste, use a regular olive oil instead.
3. 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
   • Substitutions: If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder (about 1 tsp). Alternatively, minced jarred garlic can be used as well—about 1/2 tsp for each clove.
   • Tip: Mince the garlic finely to avoid large chunks that may burn or overwhelm the dish. You can also use roasted garlic for a sweeter, more mellow flavor.
4. 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped 🌞🍅
   • Substitutions: If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, try using fresh tomatoes for a juicier option, or canned tomatoes for a softer texture. You could also use roasted red peppers for a different taste.
   • Tip: If you’re using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, make sure to drain them well to avoid extra oil in your sauce.
5. 8 oz mushrooms, sliced 🍄
   • Substitutions: If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, consider using zucchini or eggplant for a similar texture. Alternatively, you can use other mushrooms like cremini or shiitake, or even a handful of spinach or kale for a green veggie option.
   • Tip: Be sure to sauté the mushrooms until they’re golden and slightly crispy for a deeper flavor and to prevent them from being too watery.
6. 1 cup heavy cream 🥛
   • Substitutions: You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich. For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk or cashew cream.
   • Tip: If you’re using dairy-free milk, be aware it may have a thinner consistency, so you might need to reduce the amount of vegetable broth to balance it out.
7. 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated 🧀
   • Substitutions: Parmesan can be swapped with pecorino Romano for a sharper, tangier flavor. For a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
   • Tip: Freshly grated Parmesan is always preferred for the best texture and flavor. If using pre-grated cheese, it won’t melt quite as smoothly.
8. 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat) 🌶
   • Substitutions: If you prefer a milder sauce, omit the red pepper flakes entirely or reduce the amount. For a different type of heat, use a small amount of cayenne pepper or hot paprika.
   • Tip: Be cautious when adding red pepper flakes, as it’s easy to overdo it. Taste the sauce before adding more heat.
9. 1/2 cup vegetable broth (or pasta water) 💦
   • Substitutions: If you don’t have vegetable broth, chicken broth works well too. Alternatively, you can use pasta cooking water for a starchy and flavorful option that helps bind the sauce.
   • Tip: Pasta water is a secret weapon in pasta dishes—it adds starch to the sauce, helping it cling to the pasta better.
10. 1/2 tsp salt 🧂
    • Substitutions: Use sea salt, kosher salt, or Himalayan salt for a slightly different flavor. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using a salt alternative or omitting the salt altogether.
    • Tip: Taste your sauce before adding more salt, as the Parmesan and vegetable broth already contribute saltiness.
11. 1/2 tsp black pepper 🌑
    • Substitutions: Freshly cracked black pepper is ideal, but you can use pre-ground black pepper if that’s what you have on hand. For a different twist, use white pepper or even smoked pepper for extra depth.
    • Tip: Grinding the pepper fresh just before using it brings out its aromatic oils, adding a burst of flavor to the dish.
12. 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning 🍃
    • Substitutions: If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can make your own by combining dried basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also be used if you prefer a fresher taste.
    • Tip: Italian seasoning is great for a balanced herb flavor, but if you prefer a more prominent herb taste, try adjusting the blend to suit your preference.
13. 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped 🌿
    • Substitutions: Fresh basil can be substituted with fresh parsley, oregano, or even arugula for a peppery kick. For a dried herb option, use 1 tbsp dried basil, though the flavor won’t be as fresh.
    • Tip: Add basil at the end to preserve its bright, fresh flavor. If you add it too early, it may lose its fragrance.
14. 1 tbsp butter 🧈
    • Substitutions: You can use olive oil, ghee, or vegan butter for a non-dairy option. For a richer flavor, you could also substitute with cream cheese.
    • Tip: Use unsalted butter to have more control over the salt content of your dish.

How to Make Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes & Mushrooms ?

1️⃣ Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling the linguine (or your pasta of choice) in salted water according to the package instructions. Don’t forget to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining it. This starchy water will be perfect for adjusting the sauce’s consistency later on. Once the pasta is done, drain and set it aside while you work on the sauce.

2️⃣ Sauté Aromatics

Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté them for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant. This will infuse the oil with that wonderful garlic aroma and set the stage for the other flavors to come.

3️⃣ Cook Mushrooms & Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Next, add the 8 oz of sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes, until they soften and release their moisture. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. Once they’re ready, add in the 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes. The sun-dried tomatoes will bring a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that complements the earthy mushrooms perfectly.

4️⃣ Make the Cream Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir in the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 tsp of red pepper flakes (for a little heat!), 1/2 cup of vegetable broth (or pasta water, if you prefer), 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp of Italian seasoning. Give everything a good stir, and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes. You want it to thicken up slightly, giving it a velvety texture that’ll coat your pasta beautifully.

5️⃣ Combine Pasta & Sauce

Now that the sauce is ready, it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss it gently to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick for your liking, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. For an extra burst of flavor and richness, stir in 1 tbsp of butter and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil. The butter will make the sauce even creamier, while the fresh basil will give it a refreshing, herbal note.

6️⃣ Serve & Garnish

Plate your pasta and sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for that delicious cheesy goodness. Add a few extra sprigs of fresh basil for color and flavor, and voilà—you’re ready to dig in! This pasta is best served immediately while the sauce is still creamy and warm.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Pasta

Fresh Ingredients Matter

When making a creamy pasta like this one, fresh ingredients really make a difference. Opt for fresh mushrooms instead of canned ones, and always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.

Adjust the Heat to Your Liking

If you love a little spice, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes in the sauce. Conversely, if you prefer a milder dish, simply skip them or use a pinch instead of a half teaspoon.

Pasta Water Is Your Friend

Remember that pasta water you reserved earlier? It’s not just for drinking—it’s the secret to getting your sauce to the perfect consistency. The starchy water helps thicken the sauce and allows it to better adhere to the pasta. So don’t toss it!

Make It Vegan-Friendly

Want to make this dish vegan? No problem! Swap out the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative, like coconut milk or cashew cream. Use vegan Parmesan and dairy-free butter for the perfect plant-based version.

How to Store & Reheating

This creamy sun-dried tomato mushroom pasta can be stored and reheated to enjoy again! Here’s how to do it properly:

• Storage:
  • In the Refrigerator: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Freezing: While pasta dishes with cream sauce can be tricky to freeze, you can freeze this dish if necessary. Transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 1 month. Keep in mind that the sauce may separate slightly upon reheating, but it will still be delicious!
• Reheating:
  • Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen the sauce and stir often until heated through.
  • Microwave: Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until warmed through. You may need to add a little extra cream or water to maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency.

What to Serve With?

This creamy sun-dried tomato mushroom pasta is rich and satisfying on its own, but here are some great side dish options to complement the meal:

1. Garlic Bread: The perfect side to soak up all that delicious sauce! Crispy, buttery, and garlicky, it’s an essential accompaniment.
2. Salad: A light, fresh salad can balance out the richness of the pasta. Try a simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a Caesar salad for extra flavor.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts make for a flavorful, healthy side dish. The slight char adds depth to your meal.
4. Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: If you’re looking for some protein, grilled chicken or shrimp pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta. Simply season with salt, pepper, and herbs, then grill or pan-sear to perfection.

FAQs

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This Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Mushrooms in a Garlic Basil Cream Sauce is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re cooking a simple weeknight meal or preparing something special for guests. The rich, creamy sauce combined with the umami of mushrooms and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes makes this pasta truly irresistible.

It’s also a flexible recipe—feel free to make it your own by tweaking the ingredients or making it vegan. The combination of garlic, basil, and Parmesan is sure to win everyone over, and once you taste the creamy, flavorful sauce, you’ll understand why this dish is a crowd favorite.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, and let’s cook up some delicious pasta tonight! 🌞🍅🌿